The society, the largest voluntary charitable organisation in Ireland, works to help alleviate poverty.

"I've sat in on phone calls and that's pretty heart-breaking," he said.

"I have been involved with St Vincent De Paul since I was a kid and it always amazes me. Every year they fill emptiness in people's lives whether it's through food, a few bob, paying a bill, it's very important," he said.

Tubridy launched the society's annual appeal to the public to say 'yes' to helping 50,000 families this Christmas.